Project
Free State implements
A Bloemfontein implement builder needed cleaner, faster mitres for their frames and chassis. We paired them with the TubeCut R8 for rotary tube cutting.
Related cut: agricultural implements
Chasing accuracy in agricultural frame builds
The workshop outside Bloemfontein builds implements for local farmers: mainly tillage frames, planters and seeders. Traditional mitre cuts on square and round tubing were slow to set up and often needed a second pass after tacking. Welders kept complaining about gaps that made joints messy.
Cutting was done on bandsaws and chop saws, but mitre angles were inconsistent, especially on longer tubes. They found the clean-up and rework kept pushing deadlines. With bigger orders coming from surrounding co-ops, something had to change.
Switching to rotary tube cutting with TubeCut R8
We recommended the TubeCut R8 for rotary tube and RHS cutting. This system lines up square, round or oval sections and cuts mitres, straight cuts and slots in a single setup. The operator can switch between profiles quickly, which suits a workshop that runs short batches.
We set up the TubeCut R8 on their main floor, making sure extraction for metal fume and fine dust was in place. Our team trained the first shift on safety, daily checks, and how to manage radius and compound angle cuts. The biggest win was showing them how to get consistent mitre fits, even when tube stock was a bit out of spec.
Results after months in Free State conditions
After four months, the team was cutting frames and tines faster and with far less grinding. Mitre joints now close tightly and the welders say they spend less time filling gaps. The main challenge turned out to be keeping the protective window clean, as Bloemfontein's dust settles everywhere. They sometimes forgot to check it daily, so we left a reminder at the control panel.
The manager also noticed less scrap and rework on order runs. Tube changes are quicker and the operator doesnt need to reset jigs as often. The shop is keeping better track of consumables now, since more of the work happens in one cell.
Advice for similar fabrication shops
For other teams building implements or chassis in Highveld or Free State conditions, rotary tube cutting is worth considering. Consistent mitre accuracy saves time at both the saw and the welder, especially on repeat runs.
Make sure your extraction keeps up with fine metal dust, and check the protective window daily. If your tube stock comes with slight bends or ovality, tune your cut settings and hold-downs for each batch. Quick setup and repeatable cuts go a long way in these jobs.
- Check and clean the protective window every shift
- Fit extraction to control metal fume and dust
- Switch between tube profiles with one setup
- Tune hold-downs for out-of-spec tube stock
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